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Debussy - Gladioli

Gladioli love our warm Australian climate and do not particularly like frosts. Plant with flat side facing down, when chances of frost have diminished. They prefer sandy loam or well drained soil with a pH around 6-6.5, and a full sun to half sun, wind protected position. Fertilise with blood and bone, compost or general purpose fertiliser when planting. Plant 10-12cm deep and 10-20cm apart. It is important to water them when the flower spikes are beginning to form. The corms should be lifted and divided annually. When lifted be sure to properly cure them and to keep them in a dry cool well ventilated place. Thrip control can be applied while dormant. Gladioli are prone to thrip damage that can leave streaks on the leaves and flowers. Insecticides should be used to control these pests. Although very tall (1-1.5 metres) they can be potted in a good pot placed in a sheltered location, but they may require staking.